3 Things All Expectant Mommies Should Watch

***For all the pregnant moms out there, today’s post is courtesy of Amanda***

Mommies to be and new moms are often overwhelmed by the changes to their life that they experience. This often leads to frustration on coping with those changes. Throw in a lack of sleep and a fluctuation of hormones and you have one frustrated mother! We want to share with you a few things to consider when it comes to prepping for a new baby to come home and things to watch for when the baby is already home.

Take Care Of The Pests

No, we aren’t talking about your husband or partner! Pests such as ants, roaches, mice, and rats are one of life’s nasty side effects from living. You can keep your home clean and still battle an ant infestation or mice in the attic. If you have noticed any droppings or an increase in insect sightings, your best bet is to call an exterminator. A quick google search, such as pest control in Phoenix (shout out to you Wildcats out there!) can help you locate a reputable exterminator in your area. You can also check Angie’s List which is a great resource for finding everything from a mechanic to a chimney sweep. Be sure to inquire as to the pesticides they use and if there are safety concerns for mom or baby. Even if they are safe and you still feel concerned, go with your gut and leave the house for the day.

Pests bring in plenty of yucky diseases and infections that can throw your life into a tailspin unexpectedly. Even if you haven’t noticed any signs of pests, it certainly doesn’t hurt to have someone do a quick check and to check annually.

Watch Your Meds

Prescription meds and pregnancy can be a confusing situation. Be sure that your OBGYN is well aware of every medicine you take, from over-the-counter to prescription and get their advice. Some meds should not be taken during pregnancy and yet mom still needs them. For instance, some anti-depressants are not healthy for a baby in utero. Some doctors choose to switch to anti-depressants that are considered safer during the duration of the pregnancy. Why? Because untreated depression can be damaging to both mom and baby.

Other medicines can be equally dangerous to an unborn child. Many meds cause birth defects and in severe, and often rare cases, stillborn birth or miscarriages. This is why it is vital for an OBGYN to know what meds you are taking so that decisions on care can be made long before the baby arrives.

What about when baby is here and you are breastfeeding? Many prescriptions can cause development issues and be transferred from mom to baby from the breastmilk. Always notify your medical team and lactation consultant of medicines and changes to your routine. Never stop taking any medicines until a comprehensive plan is devised between you and your doctors. Both mom and baby have to be cared for in the best possible way.

You Truly Are Eating For Two

Eating for two does not mean twice the food, it means that whatever passes your lips goes to baby as well. This applies to both expectant and breastfeeding moms! Your diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be rich in vitamins and iron. Plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, some fish (avoid seafood that contains mercury, such as tuna!), and hydrate as much as you can. Avoiding fatty fried foods and overly processed junk is highly recommended to take care of you and your baby. If you are breastfeeding, talk with your lactation consultant about how many calories you need in a day to maintain a healthy flow of breastmilk. Most women need an extra 500 calories per day but if you are still struggling, you may need to increase it or look at your diet.

These are just a few things you can do to prep for baby or make your new baby safe and sound at home. Always remember, mom must be taken care of just as much as the baby! If you are overwhelmed, don’t be shy about asking for help. You and your baby will be glad you did.